Celebratory anniversary event to explore Sustainable Development Goals in Cornwall
Economic growth, clean energy and gender equality – and their importance and value to Cornwall – will be among the issues explored at a celebratory public event this September.
Shaping a Sustainable Future: Pioneering Research and Empowering Action will offer an insight into the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and how they are being realised in the Duchy.
The free one-day symposium will be held by the University of Exeter, Cornwall and is set to feature talks and sessions with academics from every major discipline.
Scheduled for Tuesday 10 September, the event is also part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the opening of the Penryn campus, with online access to the different sessions available for those unable to attend in person.
“Cornwall’s rich biodiversity, coastlines, and natural resources are central to its identity and economy,” said Professor Brendan Godley, Director of the Graduate School of Environment & Sustainability, and co-host for the event. “That is why the SDGs are so important as they promote sustainable management of these resources, ensuring they are preserved for future generations. They also encourage innovation and sustainable business practices that can drive economic growth while minimising environmental impact. This is crucial for Cornwall’s local industries, including agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy.”
After a welcome from Professor Martin Siegert, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University in Cornwall, the event will be structured around some of the key SDGs for the Duchy. These include SDG13 (Climate Action), which will focus on critical minerals with members of Camborne School of Mines; and SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) with a session on offshore wind energy led by the Renewables team.
The afternoon will shift focus to more socioeconomic SDGs, with members of the European Centre for Environment and Human Health, the Exeter Business School and Humanities and Social Sciences, Cornwall discussing topics including the development of leaders in sustainability, advancing social and environmental justice and nature-based solutions for health and wellbeing.
Professor Camille Bonneaud, Director of the Environment and Sustainability Institute and fellow co-host for the symposium, added: “The University understands the importance of addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and health, because they can all enhance the quality of life for the people of Cornwall. By focusing on these goals, the region can work towards a more equitable and inclusive society, and that is at the heart of our Greener, Healthier, Fairer strategy.
“Our hope is that this event brings this together, celebrating the great work that is already happening and providing the context of why it is so important.”
For more information, and to register for online attendance, visit Eventbrite.
